Proof of how Maxwax Really Works to Protect Wood

We've carried out some tests to see how Maxwax performs on saligna gum samples under controlled conditions. We coated half of each sample on the upper surface only (a requirement for this particular test, we would normally recommend coating all surfaces), with one sample only getting a minimal quantity of Maxwax representing poor application which sometimes happens (the one on the left of the picture of 4 "wet" samples).

See below how Maxwax keeps the treated surface relatively dry compared with the untreated ends. This is because Maxwax has the ability to soak into the wood and protect from within.

Not only did we find that all "Maxwaxed" samples remained dimensionally stable, but more importantly, the Maxwax helped reduce the severity of cracking (a real problem with gum!).

This is due to Maxwax's ability to reduce the *moisture transfer rate of wood.

* When sun dries out the exposed surface of soaked (and therefore) swollen wood, that surface shrinks while the bulk of the wood remains swollen. This leads to stresses that can both crack and split wood. Maxwax reduces this effect by slowing the rate at which moisture enters or leaves the wood, thereby helping to keep these forces at bay.

The evidence

Samples of gum treated with Maxwax (effective against Grafitti and for weathering protection as well). These samples have been exposed to weathering for 6 months.

Note how on the right hand side (treated with Maxwax) the timber has been able to repell the water.

The samples were then removed from the rain, still showing the effect of the water in them.

Then they were allowed to dry out completely

For maximum benefit of Maxwax against cracking, all surfaces (especially the ends) need have Maxwax soaked into the wood thoroughly